Khonoma, India’s most honest village: Where shops are open with no shopkeepers

Khonoma - India’s First Green Village

Widely recognised as India's most honest village, Khonoma is also India’s first green village, located approximately 20 kilometres west of Kohima, the capital of Nagaland.

Where honesty isn't rare but a ritual

The village gets its reputation from the Angami Naga tribe's strict adherence to a moral code, known as " Kenyü ," which emphasizes trust and mutual respect.

Unlocked homes, Unattended shops

As a result, houses are unlocked, shops are unattended, and villagers leave payment for purchases in designated honesty boxes, demonstrating a high level of trust and integrity.

A community that banned hunting to save forest

Khonoma is also renowned for its community-led conservation efforts, particularly the ban on hunting to protect its forests and wildlife. A significant portion of the village's forest was demarcated as a sanctuary, which was traditionally a cultural practice for the Angami tribe.

How to reach Khonoma and where to stay?

One can hire a taxi or private vehicle from Kohima. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road conditions. For accommodations, consider homestays or resorts in Kohima or the Khonoma village itself.

A lesson for the rest of India & World

This village shows that trust, integrity, and sustainable living aren’t just ideals, they’re everyday practices. The world can take inspiration from its community-first approach to conservation and mutual respect for a realistic crime-free future.